[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Village
of Williamsville 4-22-2019 by L.L.
No. 3-2019.[1] Amendments noted where applicable.]
[1]
Editor's Note: This local law also superseded former
Ch. 84, Signs, adopted 11-28-2011 by L.L. No. 4-2011, as amended.
A.
Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to permit the use of signage
within the Village of Williamsville, while also promoting and protecting
the health, welfare, and safety of the public. The intent of this
chapter is to achieve the following objectives:
(1)
Ensure right to free speech as protected under the United States
Constitution;
(2)
Establish a clear and impartial process for those seeking to install
signs;
(3)
Protect property values, create a more attractive economic and business
climate, and protect the physical appearance of the community;
(4)
Provide structures and uses with effective means of identification
while reducing visual clutter through the prevention of excessive
and confusing sign displays;
(5)
Reduce traffic conflicts or hazards by minimizing visual distractions
or obstacles in or visible from the public rights-of-way;
(6)
Reduce the adverse effects of signage on the desirable aesthetic
of the Village and on the general environment of the community; and
(7)
Enforce and encourage the objectives and goals of the Village Community
Plan.
B.
Applicability.
(1)
The regulations of this chapter shall govern and control the erection,
enlargement, expansion, renovation, operation, maintenance, relocation
and removal of all signs within the Village visible from any street,
sidewalk, public right-of-way, or public space.
(2)
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to safety signs, road
signs, historical markers, highway directional signs, or signs erected
by governmental agencies.
(3)
Notwithstanding any other provision within this chapter to the contrary, any sign proposed on local historic landmarks or within historic districts as designated by Chapter 47 of the Village Code shall be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission, and is not subject to review under this chapter. Following the application procedures of this chapter, the Commission may approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove the sign based on the design criteria of this chapter. It is also tasked with guiding the designs to fit with the landmark or district where the signs are proposed.
(4)
This chapter shall in no event be construed or employed in any manner
to prohibit the customary decoration of premises in any district during
religious, patriotic or holiday seasons.
A.
PLANNING BOARD
SIGN OFFICER
Boards and officers. For the purposes of this chapter, the following
references to agents or officers of the Village shall be interpreted
as noted below.
The Village of Williamsville Planning and Architectural Review Board as provided for by Chapter 112 of the Village Code.
The administrator and enforcer of this chapter as appointed
by the Village of Williamsville Board of Trustees, and/or its designee.
B.
A-FRAME SIGN
ALTERATION
AWNING
AWNING SIGN
BANNER
CHANNEL LETTER
CHANNEL LETTER, REVERSE
COMMERCIAL MESSAGE
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
FREESTANDING SIGN
GOVERNMENTAL SIGN
GROUND SIGN
ILLUMINATION, EXTERNAL
ILLUMINATION, INTERNAL
INCIDENTAL SIGN
INTERNAL SIGN
LAWN SIGN
MARQUEE SIGN
MONOPOLE SIGN
NEON SIGN
NONCONFORMING SIGN
PAINTED SIGN
PENNANT
PILLAR SIGN
PROJECTING SIGN
ROOF SIGN
SIGN
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
SIGN BOARD AREA
SIGN TYPE
SUSPENDED SIGN
TEMPORARY SIGN
USE
VALANCE
WALL SIGN
WINDOW SIGN
Terms defined. The following terms and definitions shall apply to
this chapter for the purposes of administration and enforcement.
A freestanding sign that is comprised of two sign faces diverging
at an angle of no more than 45° from their adjoined edge.
 A-Frame Sign Example
|
Any construction or physical change to a sign or the supporting
members of a sign.
An architectural fabric or canvas projection that provides
weather protection, identity or decoration and is wholly supported
by the building to which it is attached, generally comprised of a
lightweight frame structure over which a cover is attached.
A sign that is part of or attached to an awning.
A length of fabric or similar material, temporarily strung
between two points, upon which a message is imprinted.
A fabricated or formed three-dimensional letter into which
a light source, such as a neon tube, may be placed.
A channel letter than has a face and sides, but no back,
and is pinned out from a background surface so as to produce a halo
effect around the letter when illuminated.
Any message where the primary purpose of which is the commercial
advertisement or promotion of a commercial product, event, or service
(including content on an internet website operated for a commercial
purpose).
A freestanding sign commonly associated with and limited
to noncommercial information and directions necessary and convenient
for persons coming on the property, including signs marking entrances,
parking areas, one-way driveways, rest rooms, pickup and delivery
areas, drive-through ATM machines, and hours of business.
 Directional Sign Example
|
A sign not attached to any building or structure, which may
be supported by columns or posts.
A sign erected and maintained pursuant to and in discharge
of any governmental function or required by any general law, local
law or governmental regulation.
A type of freestanding sign that is mounted on a base flush
with the ground or supported by one or two columns or posts provided
the distance between the ground and bottommost edge of the sign is
no greater than four feet.
 Ground Sign Example
|
Illumination by a light source located outside of the sign
structure or lettering that is directed at the sign face.
Illumination by a light source contained within the sign
structure or lettering.
A sign containing no commercial message and typically erected
to identify addresses, entrances, exits, restrooms, hours and days
of operation, public utility locations, emergency addresses and telephone
numbers, etc. These examples are not given by way of limitation; an
incidental sign can contain any noncommercial message in accordance
with this chapter.
 Incidental Sign Example
|
A sign that is not intended to be viewed from outside the
property and located so as not to be legible from any public right-of-way
or from any adjacent property, including any signs in interior areas
of shopping centers, commercial buildings and structures, stadiums,
and similar structures of a recreational nature.
A sign constructed of materials not intended for permanent
installation that is attached to a single or multiple posts for support
and stuck into the ground. The height of a lawn sign shall include
any posts or supports. Political campaigns, garage sales, and charitable
events, for example, are often advertised with lawn signs.
 Lawn Sign Example
|
A permanent structure attached to the front of a building
and which incorporates a large message area. Typically illuminated
and often ornate in design, a marquee sign projects over the entrance
of the building and provides a canopy over at least a portion of the
sidewalk or street. Marquee signs are often used by movie theaters
and concert halls.
A type of freestanding sign that is supported by one column
or post with a distance exceeding four feet between the ground and
the bottommost edge of the sign.
 Monopole Sign Example
|
A sign that incorporates illumination through the use of
neon-type gas.
Any lawful sign existing at the time of adoption of this
chapter, or any subsequent amendments thereto, which does not conform
to the regulations of this chapter or to the regulations of the district
in which it is located.
A type of sign in which a commercial message, logo, graphic,
and/or other visual elements have been painted on an approved sign
material, or painted directly on a building facade. Painted signs
shall be regulated as wall signs.
A length of fabric, or similar material, suspended from overhead,
upon which a message is imprinted.
A type of freestanding sign that is supported by two columns
or posts with a distance exceeding four feet between the ground and
the bottommost edge of the sign.
 Pillar Sign Example
|
A sign which is wholly dependent upon a building for support
and which projects more than six inches from such building.
Any sign erected upon the roof of a building, or sign where
any portion thereof extends above the roofline of the building.
Any object, device, display or structure, or part thereof,
situated outdoors or adhered to, or located within three feet of an
exterior window that is used to advertise, identify, display, direct
or attract attention to an object, person, institution, organization,
business, product, service, event or location by any means, including
but not limited to words, letters, figures, designs, symbols, fixtures,
colors, illumination or project images. "Signs" shall also include
all sign structures. A sign for the purposes of this chapter does
not include the following:
A flag or emblem of any nation, organization of nations, state
or city, or any fraternal, religious or civic organization;
Merchandise, pictures or models of products or services incorporated
in a window display;
Official notices issued by any court or public office or officer
in the performance of a public or official duty;
Traffic control signs as defined in the New York State Vehicle
and Traffic Law; and
Works of art, including murals, which do not contain any commercial
message, logo, graphic, business name or trademark.
A horizontal band extending the full width of the building
facade and located between the highest first-floor windows and the
cornice, or if there is more than one story, the highest first-floor
windows and the bottom of the second-floor windows.
 Sign Board Area Example
|
The design and/or structure of a sign, including ground signs,
wall signs, projecting signs, suspended signs, awning signs, and window
signs.
A sign attached to and supported by the underside of a horizontal
plane.
A sign which is not intended to be used for a period of time
exceeding 30 days and is not attached to a building, structure, or
ground in a permanent manner. Such signs usually being constructed
of poster board, cardboard, masonite, plywood, or plastic material
and mounted to wood, metal, wire or rope frames or supports.
Any business, commercial tenant, event, or other such activity
occurring on any given lot and/or within any building or structure.
A projection of fabric below the main frame of an awning
to create a decorative edge.
A sign fastened to the wall of a building or structure in
such a manner that the wall becomes the supporting structure for or
forms the background surface of the sign and which does not project
outward more than six inches from such building or structure.
A sign visible from a sidewalk, street or other public place,
painted or affixed on glass or other window material, or located inside
within three feet of the window, but shall not include graphics in
connection with customary window display of products.
A.
Permit required. Except as hereinafter provided, no person shall
erect, alter, construct, relocate or cause to be erected, altered,
constructed or relocated any sign without first having obtained a
sign permit.
B.
Permit exceptions. The following situations shall not require the
issuance of a sign permit provided such maintenance, changes, or alterations
do not in any way alter the physical size, design, or nature of the
sign.
C.
Any sign for which a permit has been issued shall not be modified,
relocated, altered, or replaced, unless an amended or new sign permit
is obtained from the Sign Officer. Alterations include new faces,
new vinyl lettering and/or logos, awning recovers etc.
D.
Expiration. A sign permit shall expire if the sign for which the
permit has been issued is not fully constructed within 180 days from
the date of issuance of the sign permit.
E.
Revocation. The Sign Officer or designee may, at any time for a violation
of this regulation, issue a notice of violation. A written notice
of the violation including all reasons for the violation shall be
mailed to the property, building, and/or sign owner. Said violation
must be corrected within 30 days of the date of notice, otherwise
the sign permit shall be revoked and the sign in question shall be
required to be removed.
A.
Application submittal.
(1)
Sign applications shall not be processed until all required materials
have been submitted to the Sign Officer, within the time frames established
by the Sign Officer.
(2)
Incomplete applications will not be processed. The Sign Officer shall
provide written or electronic notice of application deficiencies to
applicants. If such deficiencies are not corrected within 30 days
of said notice, the application will be considered withdrawn.
B.
Application requirements. The following information shall be provided
in all applications for a sign permit. The Sign Officer may require
application materials to be prepared by a licensed engineer or sign
professional if deemed necessary for adequate review of the proposed
sign.
(1)
Name, address, contact information, and signature of the applicant.
(2)
Name, address, and signature of the building and/or property owner
(if not the applicant), and a statement of consent for the applicant
to seek such sign permit.
(3)
All application fees as determined by the Village Board.
(4)
Site plan and elevations indicating the size, shape, construct, materials,
layout, and proposed location of the proposed sign(s) drawn to scale.
(5)
Photos of the site or building upon which the sign is to be located.
(6)
Color illustrations and/or photos of the proposed sign and sign area.
(7)
Proposed illumination system, if any, and the type of lighting to
be used.
(8)
Samples of signage materials shall be required when requested by
the Sign Officer or Planning Board.
(9)
Any additional information as requested by the Sign Officer or Planning
Board that is deemed necessary for the adequate review of the proposed
sign.
A.
Review by sign type.
(1)
All sign permit applications for new construction shall be made in
the form of a complete signage package subject to architectural review
by the Planning Board as part of a comprehensive development application.
(2)
All sign permit applications on existing buildings shall require
either administrative review by the Sign Officer and/or Planning Board
review, depending upon the sign type and its design. The table below
indicates the required level of review by sign type.
|
Table 84-5: Required Review by Sign Type
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Sign Officer
|
Planning Board
| |
|
A-frame sign
|
•
| |
|
Awning sign
|
•
| |
|
Externally illuminated sign
|
•
| |
|
Ground sign
|
•
| |
|
Marquee sign
|
•
| |
|
Painted sign
|
•
| |
|
Projecting sign
|
•
| |
|
Suspended sign
|
•
| |
|
Temporary sign
|
•
| |
|
Wall sign
| ||
|
Area 16 square feet or less
|
•
| |
|
Area over 16 square feet
|
•
| |
|
Window signs
|
•
| |
(3)
All sign permit applications on historically designated properties
shall be subject to the Historic Preservation Committee's review
in the form of an application for a certificate of appropriateness.
(4)
Applications for signs that are consistent with a sign plan or program
previously approved by the Planning Board for a project or building
may also be administratively reviewed, regardless of sign type.
(a)
Exception: No sign plans or programs shall be eligible for administrative
review on historically designated properties unless a comprehensive
signage package was specifically agreed upon as part of the original
certificate of appropriateness review by the Historic Preservation
Committee.
B.
Administrative review procedures.
(1)
The Sign Officer may approve, approve with modifications, or deny
a sign application for any signs listed on Table 84-5 as not requiring
a Planning Board review, or any nonstructural or nondimensional modifications
of a sign previously approved under this chapter (e.g., sign face
changes, awning recoverings, etc.). The Sign Officer shall issue a
sign permit only if the sign conforms to all the applicable standards
and requirements of this chapter as well as any previous requirements
of the Planning Board.
(2)
The Sign Officer may, at his or her discretion, refer any sign application
back to the Planning Board for review and/or determination.
(3)
Any sign application decision made by the Sign Officer may be appealed
to the Planning Board by any aggrieved person within 30 days of the
date of the permit determination by the Sign Officer. This appeal
should be filed with the Building Department.
C.
Planning Board review.
(1)
The Planning Board shall review and decide upon all sign applications
received from the Sign Officer, or an appeal to the Planning Board
regarding an application. Such review may occur at any regularly or
specially scheduled Planning Board meeting.
(2)
The Planning Board may approve, approve with modifications, or deny
a sign permit application. The Sign Officer shall issue a sign permit
within 30 days of approval by the Planning Board.
(3)
Development applications subject to review and approval by the Planning
Board may have proposed signage reviewed and approved as part of the
site plan or architectural review process. In the event of such review,
all required sign permit application materials shall be provided to
the Planning Board as part of the site plan or architectural review
application.
(4)
With respect to any sign application subject to its review (including
appeals from a determination by the Sign Officer) the Planning Board
may waive any requirements of this chapter upon a showing by the applicant
that unique characteristics of his or her property render strict application
with such requirement(s) impractical and that such waiver is consistent
with the overall intent of this chapter.
(5)
Any decision by the Planning Board on a sign application is subject
to judicial review as provided by New York Village Law § 7-740.
D.
Review criteria. The review of sign permit applications by the Sign
Officer and Planning Board shall be based upon the following criteria:
(1)
The scale, color, texture and materials of the sign will be compatible
with the style, color, texture and materials of the building on which
it is located, but also allow for the keeping of logo integrity such
as a trademark logo design and/or color;
(2)
The sign is neither confusing or distracting, nor will it create
a traffic hazard or otherwise adversely impact public safety;
A.
Sign area.
(1)
Single sign face. The area of a sign shall be computed by means of
the smallest square, circle, rectangle, triangle, or geometric combination
thereof that will encompass the extreme limits of the writing, representation,
emblem, graphic, and/or other display, together with any material,
backdrop, or structure on which it is placed. See Figures 1 and 2.
 Figure 1: Single Sign Face Area
|
 Figure 2: Individual Letter Sign Area
|
(2)
Multi-faced signs. In the case of a multi-faced sign only one side
of the sign is considered in determining sign area if the sides of
the sign are back-to-back or diverge at an angle of 45° or less.
B.
Sign height.
(1)
Freestanding sign. The height of a freestanding sign shall be calculated
by measuring the vertical distance between the top part of such sign
or its structure, whichever is highest, to the elevation of the ground
directly beneath the center of the sign. See Figure 3.
 Figure 3: Freestanding Sign Height
|
(2)
Other signs. The height of an awning, projecting, suspended, wall,
or window sign shall be determined by measuring the vertical distance
between the top part of the sign face or structure, whichever is highest,
to the bottommost edge of the sign face.
A.
No sign shall be erected in such a manner as to obstruct free egress
from a window, door or fire escape or to become a menace to life,
health or property.
B.
No sign shall be erected at or near any intersection of streets,
alleys, or railways in a manner that obstructs free and clear vision
for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.
C.
No sign shall be of a shape or color that may be confused with any
authorized traffic control device.
D.
No rotating beam, beacon, or flashing illumination resembling an
emergency light shall be used with any sign display.
E.
The erection of any sign and its supports, including any wiring and/or
electrical components utilized therein, shall be consistent with generally
accepted standards and requirements of the New York State Building
Code.
F.
The erection of any sign, its supports, wiring, or other structural
and/or electrical elements may be subject to inspection and approval
by the Sign Officer.
A.
All signs shall be constructed of permanent, weather resistant, and
durable materials, except for banners, flags, temporary signs, and
window signs otherwise in conformance with this chapter.
B.
Where applicable, signs shall be supported by sign structures that
are designed to resist wind pressures, dead loads, and lateral loads
in accordance with the appropriate provisions of the New York State
Building Code. All sign supports shall be reviewed as part of the
sign design.
C.
All sign lettering shall be permanently affixed to the sign. Manual
changeable copy signs shall be enclosed and locked.
D.
No sign may be constructed of untreated, unfinished, or unpainted
wood, or other unfinished materials. All wood components of signs
must be sealed and protected from the elements. Raw metal signage,
such as sandblasted metal signs, are allowed at the discretion of
the Sign Officer or Planning Board, provided that the mounting methods
comply with this chapter.
A.
In no event shall any illuminated sign or lighting device be placed
so as to permit the beams and illumination therefrom to be directed
upon a public street, highway, sidewalk or adjacent premises so as
to cause glare or reflection that may constitute a traffic hazard
or nuisance.
B.
All lighting fixtures shall be dark sky compliant and directed so
as not to cast an illumination of more than two footcandles on adjacent
nonresidential properties or more than 0.1 footcandle on adjacent
residential properties.
C.
All illumination shall be a steady, continuous burning of bulbs or
lights. The flashing, blinking, oscillating, rotating or intermittent
turning on and off of any illuminating device is prohibited.
D.
Overhead wires or exposed wires on a sign or its supporting members
are prohibited.
E.
Permitted lighting fixtures include lanterns, goosenecks, and shielded,
architectural-grade spotlights (See § 112-161 of the Village
Code). Single bar fluorescent tube fixtures are prohibited.
F.
Channel lettering and reverse channel lettering may be utilized in
districts where illumination is permitted.
A.
No sign shall obscure, alter, or cover the architectural features
of any building.
B.
Off-premises signs are prohibited. All signs shall be located on
the site of the use being promoted, identified, or advertised.
C.
All freestanding signs, unless otherwise noted within this chapter,
shall be no closer than five feet from the outer edge of the public
sidewalk or 15 feet from the curb edge, or pavement edge of the public
roadway, whichever is greater.
No freestanding sign or any part thereof exceeding three feet
in height, other than a supporting pole or brace no greater than 18
inches in width or diameter, shall be located within the designated
clear sight triangle of any intersecting streets. The clear sight
triangle shall be defined by the triangle formed by the curblines
of the intersecting streets measured 15 feet outward from the point
of intersection of said curblines along such curblines. This shall
apply to all street corners. See Figure 4.
 Figure 4: Clear Sight Triangle
|
All signs shall be maintained in safe and good structural condition,
in compliance with all applicable building and electrical codes, and
in conformance with this chapter at all times. Such maintenance includes
replacement of all defective bulbs, parts, materials, painting, repainting,
cleaning, replacement of copy, and other acts required for maintenance
of such sign. If any sign does not comply with these standards, the
Sign Officer may require its removal.
A.
Any sign that becomes obsolete, meaning the business, product, service,
event, or other such topic to which it relates ceases operation or
is no longer applicable, must be removed within 60 days of such termination.
An extension may be granted by the Sign Officer upon written request
by the sign owner.
B.
The removal of signs shall be the sole responsibility of the sign
owner and/or sign permit holder. If said sign is not removed within
30 days of the date of written notice by the Sign Officer, the Sign
Officer is authorized to effect its removal.
C.
The removal of signs shall include the removal of all sign elements
and related structural supports, returning the building, site, or
structure to its original state.
D.
The Sign Officer may remove any sign that is found to be in violation
of this chapter. The property and/or sign owner shall subsequently
be given written notice of such sign removal. If the sign is not claimed
within 10 days of the written notice, the Sign Officer may dispose
of said sign.
E.
Any costs incurred for the removal of a sign shall be fully reimbursed
to the Village of Williamsville by the sign owner and/or sign permit
holder. All expenses incurred by the Village in removing such sign
shall be a charge against the property and shall be added to the next
taxes assessed against the property if not paid within 30 days after
notice of said charge is delivered to the owner by certified mail
or equivalent means.
The following types of signs may be erected in the Village without obtaining a sign permit. Although permits are not required for these signs, they shall conform to all other requirements of this chapter or may be subject to removal by the Sign Officer in accordance with § 84-13.
A.
Directional signs: Nonilluminated direction signs do not require
a permit provided the following conditions are met:
(1)
Directional signs shall be located entirely on the property to which
they pertain and shall not contain a commercial message (e.g., business
name).
(2)
The total of directional signs on any one property shall not exceed
an area of six square feet in a residential district, or 16 square
feet in a nonresidential district.
(3)
Directional signs shall not exceed three feet in height.
(4)
Directional signs may not extend above the first floor of any given
structure or project beyond property lines.
B.
Gasoline or vehicle charging station signs: Signs attached to a gasoline
pump or vehicle charging station shall not require a permit provided
they do not exceed six square feet in area.
C.
Governmental signs: Any official sign, public notice, or warning
sign authorized by federal, state or local law, including but not
limited to signs erected and maintained pursuant to and in discharge
of any government functions. (Example: New York State inspection station
or authorized repair shop identification.)
D.
House numbers and nameplates: Address and name of occupant of premises
for a residential structure, not including designations as to employment
or home occupation, are to be limited in size to four square feet
per dwelling unit.
F.
Internal signs: signs within a building not legible from the public
right-of-way or adjacent lots, or any sign within an enclosed outdoor
space, such as an athletic field, where such sign is not legible beyond
the property lines.
G.
Lawn signs: Lawn signs shall be in conformance with the regulations
below.
(1)
No sign exceeds four square feet in area, and the cumulative area
of all signs on the lot does not exceed 12 square feet.
(2)
Business signage placed after a project is completed must be removed
10 days after the issuance of a CO or job completion, whichever is
shorter.
(3)
No sign is illuminated.
H.
Neon signs: Neon signs located within a window area shall not require
a sign permit provided they conform to the following:
The following signs are prohibited:
A.
Any sign for which no sign permit was issued, for which a sign permit
was revoked, or any other sign not explicitly authorized herein.
B.
Any sign that may be confused with a traffic control sign, signal
or device or the light of an emergency or road equipment vehicle or
any sign which hides from public view any traffic or street sign,
signal, or device.
C.
Any sign that flashes, blinks, rotates, or revolves, or utilizes
unshielded lighting devices, mirrors, or reflectors to outline or
provide the background of a sign.
D.
Any derivation of digital or electronic signage which displays animated
or illuminated content.
E.
Any sign employing vertical louvered blinds, mechanically changing,
or movable materials.
F.
Any sign that is not properly maintained, considered structurally
unsound, hazardous, or otherwise unsafe.
G.
Any sign that contains words or pictures of an obscene or pornographic
nature.
H.
Any sign that emits audible sounds, odor, or visible matter.
I.
Any sign prohibited within a residential district that is located
in an adjacent nonresidential district and is not set back at least
10 feet from the adjacent residential district property line.
J.
Any sign that is located off-premises from the use and/or structure
to which it serves, unless otherwise permitted by this chapter.
K.
Any sign that is obsolete or abandoned, advertising an activity,
business, product or service no longer conducted or available on the
premises on which the sign is located.
L.
Any sign placed on a curb, sidewalk, hydrant, utility pole, tree
or other object located on or over any public street unless otherwise
permitted by this chapter.
M.
Any monopole sign.
N.
Any sign that is mounted on wheels or mounted on any structure on
wheels.
O.
Any banner, poster, pennant, ribbon, streamer, spinner, or balloon,
unless otherwise authorized by this chapter.
The following sign design guidelines are intended to provide
applicants, the Sign Officer, and the Planning Board with guidance
for best practices in addressing issues related to sign compatibility,
legibility, placement, and color. Please refer to the Village of Williamsville
Sign Design Preferences Gallery[1] for visual depictions of these guidelines.
A.
Compatibility.
(1)
Signs should be constructed of high quality materials that are compatible
with the building form and the desired character of the area in which
they are located.
(2)
Signs should be appropriately scaled for the building or site upon
which they are located, so as not to dominate the facade or streetscape.
(3)
Signs on buildings that have a monolithic or plain facade should
be used to create visual interest through appropriate sign design
features, scale, and proportions.
(4)
Signs should be designed to include relief in the lettering or sign
face to create shadows and provide depth and visual interest.
B.
Legibility.
(1)
Hard to read, intricate typefaces should be avoided. The number of
lettering styles on a single sign should be limited to two for small
signs and three for larger signs.
(2)
Letters and words should not be spaced too closely together. Generally,
letters should not occupy more than 75% of the sign area.
(3)
Large areas of blank spaces should be avoided. Generally, 50% or
more blank area should be avoided for boxed sign areas or framed signs.
(4)
Strangely shaped or unnecessarily narrow signs should be avoided.
If an unusual shape is not symbolic it is more likely to be confusing.
C.
Placement.
(1)
Signs should be so located to respect and complement a building's
facade, utilizing logical signage areas created by existing architectural
details or ornamentation.
(2)
Signs should be placed at or near the public entrance to a building
to indicate the most direct access.
(3)
Signs located on a building facade should be located in the sign
board area.
D.
Color.
(1)
Signs should feature substantial contrast between the color and material
of the background and text or symbols.
(2)
Sign colors should complement the materials and colors of adjacent
buildings, including accent and trim colors, where applicable.
(3)
Use of color and color combinations utilized for signs should be
limited. Generally, a sign should not utilize more than three colors,
including accent colors.
(4)
DayGlo™ or flourescent colors should
be avoided.
[1]
Editor's Note: The Sign Design Preference Gallery is included as an attachment to this chapter.
A.
Sign types. The following table indicates the sign types permitted within the Village's zoning districts, as established in Chapter 112 of the Village of Williamsville Code.
(1)
A "•" indicates that the sign type is permitted and may be illuminated.
(2)
A "○" indicates that the sign type is permitted but may not be
illuminated.
(3)
A "-" indicates that the sign type is not permitted.
|
Table 84-17A: Sign Types Permitted by Zoning District.
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Zoning Districts
| |||||
|
Sign Type
|
R-1, R-2, R-3
|
R-3M
|
NMU, MU
|
M-1
|
Requirements
|
|
Max number of signs
|
1 sign per use
|
1 sign per use
|
2 sign per use
|
2 sign per use
|
As permitted
|
|
A-Frame1
|
-
|
○
|
○
|
○
|
§ 84-18A
|
|
Awning
|
-
|
-
|
○
|
○
|
§ 84-18B
|
|
Ground
|
○
|
○
|
•
|
•
|
§ 84-18C
|
|
Marquee
|
-
|
-
|
•
|
-
|
Determined by Planning Board
|
|
Painted
|
-
|
-
|
•
|
•
|
§ 84-18H
|
|
Pole
|
-
|
-
|
•
|
•
|
§ 84-18D
|
|
Projecting
|
-
|
○
|
•
|
•
|
§ 84-18E
|
|
Suspended
|
-
|
-
|
○
|
-
|
§ 84-18F
|
|
Temporary1
|
○
|
○
|
○
|
○
|
§ 84-18G
|
|
Wall
|
○
|
○
|
•
|
•
|
§ 84-18H
|
|
Window1
|
-
|
○
|
○
|
○
|
§ 84-18I
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
A-frame, window, and temporary signs shall not be included in
the count of total allotted signage for any one use.
|
B.
Additional signage for developments. Due to the unique identification needs of residential and multitenant commercial developments, additional signage may be permitted in accordance with Table 84-17B below. All signs must be in conformance with § 84-18, where applicable.
|
Table 84-17B: Additional Development Signage
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Number
|
Type
| |
|
Residential development
|
1 per entrance1
|
Ground sign, max height 4 feet and max area 24 square feet
|
|
Multitenant commercial development
| ||
|
Per tenant
|
2
|
As permitted
|
|
Per lot
|
1
|
Ground sign, max height 10 feet and max area 32 square feet
|
|
Multistory, multitenant commercial or mixed-use building
| ||
|
First floor
|
1 per tenant
|
As permitted
|
|
Upper floor
|
1 building identification sign
|
Special Planning Board approval required
|
|
Corner buildings
|
1 additional
|
As permitted, must be identical to signage on primary facade
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
Shall only apply to entrance points from public streets.
|
|
2
|
Freestanding signs may not be duplicated. Additional signage
must be located on facade.
|
A.
A-frame sign. A freestanding sign that is comprised of two sign faces
diverging at an angle of no more than 45° from their adjoined
edge.
(1)
Requirements by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
—
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
|
Maximum area
|
—
|
6 square feet
|
6 square feet
|
6 square feet
|
|
Minimum height
|
—
|
3 feet
|
3 feet
|
3 feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
—
|
4 feet
|
4 feet
|
4 feet
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
 |
B.
Awning sign. A sign that is part of or attached to an awning.
(1)
Requirements by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
—
|
—
|
1 per awning
|
1 per awning
|
|
Maximum area
|
—
|
—
|
4 square feet
|
4 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
—
|
—
|
2 feet
|
2 feet
|
|
Minimum clearance1
|
—
|
—
|
9 feet
|
9 feet
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
Measured from the elevation of the ground directly beneath the
center of the awning to the bottommost edge of the awning.
|
 Awning Sign Example
|
(2)
Additional regulations.
(a)
Awning signs shall be permitted on first-floor awnings only.
(b)
A single use may utilize no more than two awnings for signage.
Where a single use has more than one awning, each awning shall match
in color and style.
(c)
Where an awning relates to more than one use, each use shall
be entitled to one sign on such awning provided the color and style
of the signs are the same.
(d)
Awnings upon which a sign is to be placed shall be comprised
of high-quality, weather-resistant materials designed for exterior
use.
C.
Ground sign. A type of freestanding sign that is mounted on a base
flush with the ground or supported by one or two columns or posts
provided the distance between the ground and bottommost edge of the
sign is no greater than four feet.
(1)
Requirements by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
1 per lot
|
1 per lot
|
1 per lot
|
1 per lot
|
|
Maximum area
|
6 square feet
|
16 square feet
|
20 square feet
|
30 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
3 feet
|
3 feet
|
4 feet
|
6 feet
|
|
Minimum setback
|
10 feet
|
10 feet
|
10 feet
|
10 feet
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
Internal or external
|
Internal or external
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
For residential and multitenant commercial development ground
sign requirements, see Table 84-17B.
|
 |
(2)
Additional regulations.
(a)
All ground signs shall have a landscaped area at the base of
the sign. The landscaping shall fully surround the sign and utilize
appropriate plantings so as not to obscure the visibility of the sign.
(b)
All plantings shall be properly manicured and maintained as
the season may require. Dead or decaying plant material shall be replaced
by the sign owner within 30 days of written notice by the Sign Officer.
(c)
Segmental block and/or nonmortared stone is permitted for sign
base materials only if like materials are in use throughout the principal
structure. Landscape timbers are not permitted sign base materials.
(d)
External lighting fixtures may be mounted on the ground or on
the sign. Lighting fixtures mounted on the ground shall be shielded
and directed so as to illuminate only the sign face.
(e)
The use of neon tubes may be permitted with Planning Board review
and approval.
D.
Pole sign. A type of freestanding sign that is supported by two columns
or posts with a distance exceeding four feet between the ground and
the bottommost edge of the sign.
(1)
Requirements by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
—
|
—
|
1 per lot
|
1 per lot
|
|
Maximum area
|
—
|
—
|
64 square feet1
|
64 square feet1
|
|
Maximum height
|
—
|
—
|
12 feet
|
12 feet
|
|
Minimum setback
|
—
|
—
|
10 feet
|
10 feet
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
Internal
|
Internal
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
For every foot over four feet that the sign face is elevated,
the maximum area allowable shall decrease by two square feet.
|
 |
(2)
Additional regulations.
(a)
All pole signs shall have a landscaped area at the base of the
sign. The landscaping shall fully surround the sign and utilize appropriate
plantings so as not to obscure the visibility of the sign.
(b)
All plantings shall be properly manicured and maintained as
the season may require. Dead or decaying plant material shall be replaced
by the sign owner within 30 days of written notice by the Sign Officer.
E.
Projecting sign. A sign which is wholly dependent upon a building
for support and which projects more than six inches from such building.
(1)
Requirements by districts.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
—
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
|
Maximum area
|
—
|
4 square feet
|
6 square feet
|
8 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
—
|
2 feet
|
2 feet
|
3 feet
|
|
Minimum clearance1
|
—
|
9 feet
|
9 feet
|
9 feet
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
External only
|
External only
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
Measured from the elevation of the ground directly beneath the
center of the sign to the bottommost edge of the sign.
|
 |
F.
Suspended sign. A sign attached to and supported by the underside
of a horizontal plane.
(1)
Regulations by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
—
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
—
|
|
Maximum area
|
—
|
6 square feet
|
6 square feet
|
—
|
|
Maximum height
|
—
|
2 feet
|
2 feet
|
—
|
|
Minimum clearance1
|
—
|
9 feet
|
9 feet
|
—
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
Measured from the elevation of the ground directly beneath the
center of the sign to the bottommost edge of the sign.
|
G.
Temporary sign. A sign which is not intended to be used for a period
of time exceeding 30 days and is not attached to a building, structure,
or ground in a permanent manner.
(1)
Regulations by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
1 per use
|
|
Maximum area
|
6 square feet
|
12 square feet
|
24 square feet
|
24 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
3 feet
|
3 feet
|
6 feet
|
6 feet
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
(2)
Additional regulations.
(a)
No sign shall be displayed for more than 30 days in a ninety-day
period.
(b)
The display of a sign may be extended for up to two additional
thirty-day periods upon written request to the Sign Officer setting
forth the special circumstances requiring such extension.
(c)
No sign shall project above the first floor of any given building
or beyond property lines.
(d)
Incidental banners, posters, pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners,
or balloons may be permitted in conjunction with temporary signage
at the discretion of the Sign Officer and/or Planning Board, provided
they are in conformance with this section.
H.
Wall sign. A sign fastened to the wall of a building or structure
in such a manner that the wall becomes the supporting structure for
or forms the background surface of the sign and which does not project
outward more than six inches from such building or structure.
(1)
Regulations by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
1 per structure
|
1 per structure
|
1 per facade1
|
1 per facade1
|
|
Maximum area
|
4 square feet
|
8 square feet
|
20% of facade or 50 square feet, whichever is less
|
20% of facade or 50 square feet, whichever is less
|
|
Maximum height
|
2 feet
|
2 feet
|
4 feet
|
6 feet
|
|
Illumination
|
Not permitted
|
Not permitted
|
External only
|
Internal or external
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|
1
|
All wall signs on any given facade shall be considered as one
collective sign provided the cumulative area of signage does not exceed
the maximum area allowable.
|
I.
Window sign. A sign meant to be visible from a sidewalk, street or
other public place, painted or affixed on glass or other window material,
or located inside within three feet of the window, but shall not include
graphics in connection with customary window product displays.
(1)
Regulations by district.
|
R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts
|
R-3M District
|
NMU, MU Districts
|
M-1 District
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum number
|
—
|
—
|
None
|
None
|
|
Maximum area
|
—
|
—
|
25% of window area
|
50% of window area
|
|
Illumination
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
A.
Any sign that does not comply with this chapter is eligible for characterization
as a legal nonconforming sign if the sign complied with all requirements
in effect at the time it was erected.
B.
Nonconforming signs must be brought into compliance with this chapter
under the following conditions:
C.
Any nonconforming sign that is removed from its position or siting
and not replaced in-kind within 60 days shall be presumed to be abandoned
and discontinued, and therefore may not be restored or re-erected
except in compliance with this chapter.
D.
No nonconforming sign may be altered in any way that would increase
its nonconformity with the regulations of this chapter, including
but not limited to area, height, setback, and illumination.
E.
A nonconforming sign shall not be repaired, reconstructed or replaced,
except in conformity with all the provisions of this chapter if it
is damaged to an extent that the cost of repairing the sign to its
former condition or replacing it with an equivalent sign equals or
exceeds 50% of the replacement value of the sign so damaged, including
labor.
F.
Nothing in this section shall relieve the owner or user of a nonconforming
sign or owner of the property on which the nonconforming sign is located
from complying with the provisions of this chapter regarding safety,
maintenance and repair of signs. Any repainting, cleaning, or routine
maintenance or repair of the sign or sign structure shall not be deemed
to modify the sign in any way.
